Farewell to Hervé Delphin: European Union Ambassador Leaves India

On August 28, 2026, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar bid farewell to the outgoing European Union Ambassador to India. In a social media message highlighting the significance of Hervé Delphin India-EU relations, Dr Jaishankar praised the diplomat for his hard work during a very busy period.  

Image Source:- newsonair.gov.in India's External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar bids farewell to outgoing Ambassador of the European Union to India Herve Delphin.

Growing the Strategic Partnership

Ambassador Delphin spent his time in New Delhi heavily focused on bringing India and Europe closer together. Dr Jaishankar made sure to highlight the ambassador's dedication to growing the India EU Strategic Partnership.

This important relationship has expanded to cover many new areas, including digital rules, climate change, and keeping the oceans secure. India and the EU continue to share a strong belief in playing by global rules and focusing on sustainable growth.

Pushing the Trade Agreement

Economics played a massive role during Delphin's time in India. The External Affairs Minister specifically thanked him for pushing forward the much-anticipated India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

These trade talks started up again in June 2022 and remain a top priority for both sides. The goal is to cut tariffs on most goods, making it easier for businesses in both regions to trade while keeping supply chains secure.

Outgoing EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin leaves behind a powerful legacy of deepened strategic partnerships, revived trade negotiations, and historic economic growth between India and the European Union.  

Boosting Trade and Technology

The economic ties between the two regions are stronger than ever. The European Union remains one of India's most important trading partners today. Recent figures show that the trade of goods has hit EUR 120 billion, and when you add services, the total trade reaches a massive EUR 180 billion.

While Delphin was in office, India and the EU also launched the Trade and Technology Council. This special group helps both sides figure out tricky issues related to safe technology and building reliable supply chains.

Building a Strong Foundation

The sheer number of European businesses in India highlights just how deep this partnership goes. Right now, around 6,000 European companies operate across the country. These businesses have created over three million direct jobs for Indians in various sectors.

Ending his message, Dr Jaishankar wished Ambassador Delphin all the best in his future work.

As the ambassador departs, he leaves behind a very strong foundation for the next chapter of European and Indian relations.